Over 2015 and 2016, south London soul singer Samm Henshaw released two EPs, supported James Bay and Chance the Rapper on tour and built a bit of buzz. Then he went quiet.
There’s still no sign of a debut album but a new single, How Does It Feel?, is a strong reintroduction that’s right for the weather.
Co-written with Maverick Sabre and producer Josh Grant, it struts along on warm piano chords, still vintage in feel in the manner of American soul revivalist Leon Bridges, but also tipping a hat to the present day with its digitally treated backing vocals.
He’s come back with a timely remix from Canadian duo Banx & Ranx too, who are hot right now after spending six weeks in the top 10 with Answerphone, their bouncy single with Ella Eyre and Yxng Bane.
The dancehall clatter that they add to the tune ought to make it a summer favourite. A Hoxton Hall comeback gig next week will be a chance to hear it in suitably muggy conditions, or he’ll be at the Scala for his biggest hometown show in the autumn.
July 24, Hoxton Hall, N1. hoxtonhall.co.uk; Oct 30, Scala, N1. scala-london.co.uk